Stenbock House, 17 March 2017 - Prime Minister Jüri Ratas and the Prime Minister of Luxembourg, Xavier Bettel, discussed the bilateral cooperation between the two countries at today’s meeting, including the strengthening of relations through joint projects in the field of digital technology.

“Estonia and Luxembourg have much in common, for example, a shared understanding of economic issues and of the IT sector,” Prime Minister Ratas said. “Digital Europe is one of the top priorities for the Estonian Presidency of the EU Council. We want to raise the scale of digital technology in all formats of the Council of the European Union in order to promote the digital dimension of the EU as a whole. In this regard, Estonia sees Luxembourg as a partner of great potential with whom we are establishing a strong and efficient working relationship.” Prime Minister Ratas confirmed that Estonian experts and companies were willing to share their knowledge and experience in the field of e-services with Luxembourg and any other interested parties.

According to Ratas, the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding between Estonia and Luxembourg, in respect of the implementation of the Virtual Data Embassy Solution, is a shining example of effective bilateral cooperation. “Virtual embassies will be used to back up the data and information systems required for the functioning of the state, ensuring that they remain under the control of the Estonian government and within our legal space – to ensure the digital and overall continuity of our state. This is a novel solution in the world. Once again, Estonia is a pioneer in using digital technology - this time together with Luxembourg.” Prime Minister Ratas thanked Prime Minister Bettel for his personal contribution to the project.

“These projects contribute to economic growth both in Estonia and in Luxembourg and bring prosperity to both countries,” said Ratas, adding that digital solutions help to move Europe forward.

The Prime Ministers also touched upon the future of Europe in relation with the forthcoming celebration of the 60th anniversary of the Treaty of Rome. Ratas emphasised the importance of better explaining to Europeans how the EU works, as well as how it affects their everyday lives and opens new avenues for them. “The next week’s events in Rome will definitely send a strong message to people about the future of Europe,” said Ratas.

After the meeting, the prime ministers of the two countries will visit the e-Estonia Showroom where they will be given a briefing on Estonian e-solutions and e-services.

The Prime Minister of Luxembourg is also a recent e-resident of Estonia.